Karter Johnson loves two things - popcorn and reading! When he heard that there was a literacy problem in his area, where 3rd graders were being held back due to their difficulties reading, Karter knew he had to do something. Enter, Popcorn and Books, Karter’s book initiative encouraging kids of ages 5 - 10 to read more. Karter does book reviews on his Facebook and Instagram page and even goes into schools to encourage kids to read!

Wanting to spread his message of literacy and education, Kebloom got in touch with Karter:

1) Please introduce yourself.

Hi, my name is Karter Johnson. I’m 9 years old, I’m from Detroit, Michigan and I’m the CEO and founder of Popcorn and Books.

“Popcorn and Books is a reading program where I encourage kids ages 5 - 10 to read more and to enjoy reading.”

2) What is the name of your business?

My business name is Universe of Popcorn and through my business, I created a program called Popcorn and Books.

3)   Tell us a little bit about Popcorn and Books.

Popcorn and Books is a reading program where I encourage kids ages 5 - 10 to read more and to enjoy reading.

One day I read a newspaper article that said if 3rd graders couldn’t read very well, they would have to repeat the 3rd grade instead of going into 4th. I didn’t want that to happen. So, I started to create a company called Popcorn and Books.

“My ultimate goal is just to see that kids are happy with reading!”

4) Who are your customers?

My customers are adults with kids ages 5 -10 and with kids who need someone to read with or a bit of encouragement.

5) What passions inspired the creation of Popcorn and Books?

I love popcorn and I also love books, so I decided to combine those two together and create it into a company called Popcorn and Books to help with the literacy problem.

6) What skills have you developed running your business and the Popcorn and Books program?

I’ve learned the importance of time management and keeping your schedule.

7) What are your current goals and what is your ultimate goal?

My current goal is to deliver 4 and exciting books, once a month, through my book box.

My ultimate goal is just to see that kids are happy with reading.

8) What is your advice for other young entrepreneurs?

Just stay focused, just stay motivated, stay creative and whenever things get tough, just take a break and then keep on going.

…and anything else you’d like to add!

You can follow me on Instagram and Facebook, also visit my website.

Again, my name is Karter from Popcorn and Books and thank you for your time.

Until next time, happy reading!

About the Author:

Ellie McRae is the blogger, interviewer and content creator for Kebloom! When she’s not writing kick-ass articles, you’ll find her studying marketing and drinking copious amounts of coffee. Find out more about Ellie here.